Barrell Foundation:
Barrell Foundation Bourbon was our first foray into non-cask strength bourbon. Our goal was to deliver a world class bourbon at an even better price point. This is a classic bourbon with a finish that is creamy and sweet, emphasising cinnamon, toffee and vanilla pudding. Twenty-three percent rye in the mash bill gives Foundation richness and complexity, while the approachable proof point brings out lush sweetness and dark fruit. Your Old Fashioneds will never be the same.
Tasting Notes:
Appearance: Golden amber.
Nose: An initial wave of honey, candied-strawberry, dark cherry, and grilled cantaloupe greet you. Notes of lavender and fennel emerge and are balanced by cocoa, brown butter, and cardamom. Grilled peaches and hazelnut linger, followed by a burst of lemon and lime zest with a touch of oily, waxy fruit peel.
Palate: Maple pecans, dark chocolate and cinnamon unfold and are quickly followed by rich flavors of tiramisu and cardamom cake, with a mouthfeel to match. This expands to include hints of fennel, lemongrass, and lemon zest, balancing the creamy, full-bodied mouthfeel.
Finish: Creamy and sweet, emphasising cinnamon, toffee, vanilla pudding.
With water: Even more viscous and creamy with the vanilla pudding evolving into bananas foster. The citrus zest and the lemongrass become more elevated with notes of orange sherbet.
Barrell Foundation Double Barrel:
Barrell Foundation Double Barrel Bourbon exhibits all the complexity that you find in a Barrell Craft Spirits bourbon at a lower proof. Secondary maturation in new American oak casks enhances the notes of dark chocolate, leather, dried fruit, and toasted marshmallows, while the twenty-three percent rye in the mash bill gives a richness to the blend. This is a versatile, full-flavored bourbon perfect for enjoying neat, over ice or in a cocktail.
Tasting Notes:
Appearance: A rich, dark amber hue that glistens invitingly in the glass.
Nose: The aroma unfolds with a luscious blend of caramel and hints of milk chocolate, complemented by baked apples and a dash of pumpkin spice. Following this initial wave, notes of apple fritter, cinnamon, nutmeg, honey-roasted almonds, and orange peel emerge. As the glass fully opens, fresh orange juice, fine black pepper, vanilla, hazelnut, and chocolate-covered cherries come to the forefront, along with enticing hints of brûléed banana, warm bread pudding, and a touch of sweet leather.
Palate: The entry is warm and creamy, with flavors of orange sponge cake, lightly roasted coffee, and rich caramel leading the way. As the sip evolves, notes of cinnamon, dark chocolate, cream puff, and fresh mint emerge. With each successive sip, cherry, vanilla, and toasted marshmallow take hold, while notes of white pepper, toasted walnuts, and vibrant orange zest flicker throughout, creating a harmonious and complex experience.
Finish: The finish is smooth and lingering, with echoes of vanilla, orange, white pepper, and cinnamon that invite you back for more.
With water: Adding a drop of water enhances the experience, making it more decadent. The chocolate merges with the toasted marshmallow to become fire-roasted s'mores, while the honey-roasted almonds transform into pralines. The brûléed banana evolves into luscious bananas fosters, and the baking spices become more defined, merging with the sweeter notes for an indulgent profile that entices the senses.
